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WATERSKI MagazineOVERVIEW
Since its 2002 debut, the Avalanche has become one of Centurion's most popular boats. It's easy to see why — literally. Just look at the stern in these photos. While a walk-through bow is standard on just about every boat in this guide, the Avalanche has a rare walk-through transom for easy access to the teak swim platform from the wraparound lounge. Many boats offer multisport versatility, but none can boast such serious wakeboarding and serious wake surfing, thanks to bold wakes and those optional Sideswipe vents that direct exhaust to either side of the transom.
The Avalanche has other obvious advantages, too, including a smooth ride with its deep-V-entry hull and a lot of interior spaciousness across a width of 100 inches. Storage areas are underneath virtually everything in the open bow and all along the port side. Even the walk-throughs have compartments underneath, including an insulated cooler between the bow and the driver's console. Snap-out carpet and a swiveling driver's chair are two more amenities you don't see just everywhere. Add it all up and you've got the secret to popularity.
WAKEBOARDING
If you like quick, rampy wakes, then the Avalanche is the boat that will fit your riding style. Our test riders knew when they were in the sweet spot behind the Avalanche. The wakes had pro-level size to kick you up, although we wish the landing zones were a little bigger to make for softer landings. The wakes seem narrower — in a good way — than a 100-inch beam would suggest. To help dial the wakes to cover a broader range of riding styles, we recommend the trim tab. With the new optional swooping tower and 250-pound center ballast weighting down an already deep 30-inch draft, the Avalanche had us flying high.
LOWDOWN
• Wakeboarding V-drive has an uncommon walk-through transom.
• Deep-V hull design makes tackling big-water chop and huge double-ups much less daunting.
• Optional Sideswipe exhaust accommodates growing number of wake surfers.
• Especially wide 100-inch beam opens up passenger space in the wraparound lounge and open bow.
• Standard tower and center ballast can be upgraded with rear ballast, board racks and four-speaker Sony stereo with Kicker subwoofer and amp.
PERFORMANCE
Top Speed 45.6 mph 5,500 rpm
Accel. to 30 mph 5.1 sec. 124.3 ft.
Accel. to 36 mph 6.8 sec. 207.8 ft.
Noise Levels (db) Neutral 65 D 65 R, 36 mph 94 D 93 R
SPECS
Length 22 ft. Beam 100 in.
Seating Capacity 10
Fuel Capacity 36 gal.
Test Prop Acme 13 x 11.5 3-blade
Test Engine MerCruiser Black Scorpion 5.7L, 330 HP
